Five Newark and Sherwood District Council parks have successfully retained their Green Flag Award status for another year.

Among them are Vicar Water Country Park, Clipstone, and Sherwood Heath Cockglode and Rotary Woods (pictured), near Edwinstowe.

The Green Flag Award, a mark of excellence recognised nationally and internationally, highlights the outstanding management and community involvement of parks and green spaces and is a sign to the public that the site holds the highest possible environmental standards, is well maintained and has excellent visitor facilities. It also recognises the hard work of staff and volunteers in maintaining spaces to meet the needs of the local community.

Coun Emma Oldham, portfolio holder for Biodiversity and Environmental Services at the council said: “Receiving this award for yet another year is a testament to the work we continue to do to protect and improve our green spaces and parks. Residents consistently tell us how much they value these spaces in our district, and it is a wonderful to see the efforts of all those involved in maintaining them being recognised.

“From our park rangers and Street Scene team to the incredible groups of Friends and volunteers, we would not have this award if it were not for their dedication to making the parks and green spaces of our district wonderful places to be.”